Walter Clayton Jr. Sparks Florida’s NCAA Run, Eyes NBA Future

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Walter Clayton Jr., a standout guard for the Florida Gators, has played a pivotal role in leading his team to the NCAA Final Four, marking their first appearance since 2014. The Gators, who are currently on a 10-game winning streak, will face the Auburn Tigers in a national semifinal on Saturday.

Clayton Jr., a 6-foot-2, 190-pound shooting guard, has been instrumental in Florida’s success this season, averaging 20.6 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.5 assists since their last loss to Georgia on February 25. His performance includes an impressive 43% shooting from beyond the arc and a memorable three-pointer against Texas Tech that helped secure a place in the Final Four.

“A lot of people questioned his ability to play point guard at the SEC level, and he, in my humble opinion, is playing like the best guard in America right now,” said Florida head coach Todd Golden.

Clayton’s journey began at Iona College under the legendary Rick Pitino, where he evolved from a freshman averaging 7.3 points per game to a mid-major star scoring 16.8 points during his sophomore campaign. Seeking a bigger platform, he transferred to Florida before the 2023-24 season, where he quickly made an impact by earning all-SEC honors.

Last season, he averaged 17.6 points per game, a benchmark that he has surpassed this year, showcasing his improving shooting skills and playmaking ability. According to Bleacher Report, he is a projected mid-to-late second-round pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, with several teams showing interest.

“Guard play is crucial to winning games in the tournament, so having a superstar like Clayton is key to Florida’s title chances,” noted sports reporter Alfred Ezman.

As the NCAA tournament progresses, Clayton is being compared to some of the best in the game. Florida’s run has drawn attention to his shooting prowess, particularly from three-point range, where he has excelled this season by shooting over 39% off catch-and-shoot opportunities.

Despite concerns about his height for the professional level, NBA scouts have taken note of his ability to score and distribute the ball. He has been compared to NBA guard Fred VanVleet, which highlights his potential value in the league.

Rumors suggest NBA teams such as the Philadelphia 76ers, Orlando Magic, and Miami Heat are considering Clayton as a second-round option. The potential fit with these teams could be beneficial, especially if he can develop behind seasoned players.

“Walter Clayton buried three threes in the final six minutes of Florida’s comeback win over Texas Tech, and his late-game takeovers have become a theme of the NCAA tournament,” wrote Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman.

As the Gators prepare for their crucial matchup against Auburn, Clayton Jr. remains focused on winning a national championship and securing his future at the next level. His performance will be pivotal in determining both outcomes.